On the French Riviera between Nice and the Italian border, Monaco is a tiny, independent principality that’s smaller than a single square mile. The country gained international fame in 1956 when reigning Prince Rainier III married American actress—and Hollywood royalty—Grace Kelly, cementing its status as a playground for the jet set.
Today, it’s still world-famous as a capital for pomp and pampering. Within its postage-stamp borders, visitors can find: nine Michelin-starred restaurants (and 14 stars total); more than 100 registered Ferraris (2.86 per 1,000 residents, to be precise); and some 12,000-plus millionaires—comprising about a third of the population.
And since it’s so small, it’s exceedingly easy for visitors to experience a taste of Monegasque life—if they know the right spots to go to. Here’s Indagare’s Cheat Sheet for exploring the best of Monaco.
Sleep...
in any of the city’s fabulous five-star resorts. Team favorites include the Metropole for glamour, slightly removed from hubbub; Hotel de Paris for see-and-be-seen elegance; Monte Carlo Beach for relaxed waterfront vibes.
Experience...
the glitzy Place du Casino, shaded by palm trees and surrounded by Belle Epoque architecture. Expect a slew of supercars parked in front, attracting plenty of attention under the Monegasque sun.
Splurge...
on a day at sea aboard a yacht (you’re in Monaco, after all). Sail to nearby spots along the Riviera and enjoy dips in the Mediterranean before lunch at waterfront restaurants or from the comfort of your own luxe vessel.
Eat...
at one of Monaco’s top tables, be it coastal French classics at La Môme Monte-Carlo, Lebanese at Em Sherif or Greek standouts at Zēphyr.
Drink...
excellent cocktails at fabulous bars like the legendary Le Bar American, with live music every night, Trinity Cocktail Club or the redesigned La Rascasse.
Savor...
an indulgent, slow dinner at destination restaurants like Rampoldi, a posh Monte Carlo fixture since 1946, or the ever-popular Nobu.
Visit...
the Musée Océanographique de Monaco, once headed by Jacques Cousteau. This palatial cliff-top aquarium showcases rarely seen marine life and a bouillabaisse of sharks circling in a giant tank.
See...
the private car collection of Prince Rainier III. More than 100 vehicles are on view, including a De Dion Bouton from 1903 and a 1911 Renault among a clutch of Ferraris, Maseratis and Jaguars.
Shop...
at luxe retail meccas, like chandelier-lit Metropole Shopping Monte-Carlo and the newer One Monte Carlo, designed by Pritzker-winner Richard Rogers.
Know...
that as an Indagare member you can contact our Bookings Team for customized recommendations and itineraries in Monaco.
This article was produced in partnership with Visit Monaco.
Published onMay 1, 2026
Plan Your Trip With Us
We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities.
Get in touch